Must-Have Baby Products for the Newborn Stage: A Photographer’s Recommendations

Hi there, new mamas and mamas-to-be! As a newborn photographer, I’ve had the joy of working with countless squishy, snuggly babies (seriously, it’s the best job ever). Not only do I get to capture their sweet little toes and sleepy yawns, but I’ve also had two newborns of my own. So, trust me when I say I know a thing or two about surviving—and thriving—during those magical, exhausting first few months.

One of the questions I’m often asked during photo sessions is, “What baby products do you recommend?” So, I’ve compiled a list of my all-time favorite newborn must-haves to make your life a little easier. These are products I’ve used personally or seen families rave about during my sessions. Ready to make your life as a new parent a little smoother? Let’s dive in!

1. Swaddles
There’s nothing like a good swaddle to help your baby (and you!) get some much-needed rest. Swaddling helps recreate that snug, womb-like feeling that newborns love. My go-to swaddle is The ErgoPouch, which is as soft as it is easy to use. Trust me, even the most sleep-deprived parent can master this one! The best part about it? If you have a baby who prefers to sleep with their arms out, or rolls early, it converts to a sleep sack! Prefer a more traditional swaddle? I love the Life Tree and Little Unicorn muslin swaddles (they work great as an extra-large burp cloth) and the stretchy swaddles by Copper Pearl and Little Unicorn. Working on your baby registry? Check out my favorite sleep sacks by Gunamuna for when baby is older!

2. Sound Machine
White noise is a lifesaver for calming a fussy baby and keeping them asleep. During photo sessions, I always use a portable sound machine, and it works like magic. My favorite is this brown noise sound machine, which is small and powerful, with many great sound and light options (great for night time feeds and changes). Want something a little higher-tech? The Hatch Sound Machine with the charging base is an excellent option that can be controlled via your smart phone and can be used cordlessly. Need something for on the go? The Dream Egg is what I use in the car for my babies and during all of my newborn sessions.

3. Baby Wrap or Carrier
Let’s face it: your arms can only hold a baby for so long before they turn to jelly. A good baby carrier gives you the freedom to move around while still keeping your little one close. My top pick is The Solly Baby Wrap, which is comfortable for both baby and parent. I can't count the number of times I've use my Solly Baby Wrap, it has been an absolute game changer. For a more structured carrier that allows for world-facing and a back-carry, I love the Tula Explore! This was the only structured carrier that I found fit me well and kept baby in an ergonomically safe position while world-facing. Make sure to look up how to safely use your baby wrap or carriers and practice, practice, practice! It's so, so important to make sure your carrier fits properly and that baby is positioned correctly. (Look up T.I.C.K.S -- the rules for safe baby wearing!)

4. Diaper Caddy
You’ll be amazed at how many diapers a newborn can go through in a day. Keeping your changing essentials organized and within reach is key. I love this smaller caddy for its practicality and neutral design. For something a little more spacious or aesthetically pleasing, I love the Pera Bella and Blissful Diary caddies! The Blissful Diary caddies also come in an adorable floral print and rainbow shape designs! Bonus: They're all portable, so you can easily move it from room to room.

5. High-Quality Baby Monitor
Peace of mind is priceless, and a reliable baby monitor is a must for keeping an eye (or ear) on your little one. I recommend the BabySense Monitor for its clear video and sound quality, plus it's ability to have split screens in two rooms for multiple viewing options if you have more than one little (or plan to!) Bonus: it doesn't require wifi or bluetooth connection, so no worries about strangers hacking your monitor. 

6. Crib Mattress & Sheets
A soft, breathable crib mattress and sheets are a must for your little one’s comfort (and your peace of mind). My favorite crib mattress is The Newton because of its breathability and washability! Our favorite sheets are Pobibaby sheets, which are easy to clean and come in the cutest solid prints and patterns.

7. Burp Cloths
Spit-ups are just part of the newborn life, and having plenty of absorbent burp cloths on hand is a lifesaver. I love Looxii burp cloths for their softness, extra large size and durability—plus, they come in a ton of cute colors and wash well!

8. Nursing Pillow
Whether you’re breastfeeding or bottle-feeding, a good nursing pillow can make feeding sessions so much more comfortable. My top choice is the Luna Lullaby Nursing Pillow, which provides excellent support for both baby and parent (with no weird gap for baby to slump down in while nursing!). If you're local to the Kitsap or Seattle areas, you can get these at Nurturing Expressions in Poulsbo, Tukwila and Seattle!

9. Baby Bouncer
A bouncer is perfect for keeping your baby entertained while you grab a quick bite or fold some laundry. My favorite is the BabyBjorn Bouncer, which has an ergonomic design and multiple settings to recline or elevate your baby. I wish we'd had this with our first baby because it was a game changer with our second, especially since he had some major reflux issues. Bonus: add this toy bar for when baby is older and watch them have a ball!

10. A Tummy Time/Activity Mat
Tummy time is essential for helping your baby develop strength and coordination, and a good activity mat makes it fun! I recommend the Skip Hop Farmstand Activity Gym for its engaging toys and soft, supportive design. 

Why These Products Made the List  
These items aren’t just practical—they’re sanity-savers. As a photographer, I’ve seen firsthand how the right products can make those early days more manageable. Plus, having a few tried-and-true items on hand means less stress and more time to soak up those precious baby snuggles.

Share Your Favorites!  
I’d love to hear what products you’re loving during the newborn stage! Drop your favorites in the comments below or send me a message. And if you’re looking to capture this special time with a newborn photo session, let’s chat!

Here’s to surviving (and loving) life with a newborn—one product at a time! 

Happy parenting,  
Kirsti Coutlee Photography

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